Serbian Star Sets Sights on Historic Olympic Defence
Tennis legend Novak Djokovic has announced his extraordinary ambition to continue competing at the sport's highest level until he turns 40, with his eyes firmly set on defending his Olympic title at the 2028 Los Angeles Games. The revelation comes after the 24-time Grand Slam champion secured his 101st ATP title at the Hellenic Championship in Athens, where he played with protective tape on his shoulder.
Physical Challenges and Tournament Withdrawal
The world number one demonstrated his enduring class by defeating Italy's Lorenzo Musetti 4-6, 6-3, 7-5 in the Athenian final, though he subsequently withdrew from the season-ending ATP Finals in Turin. Musetti, currently ranked ninth globally, has taken Djokovic's place in the Italian tournament.
Despite reaching semi-finals in all four Grand Slams this year, the Serbian maestro has only contested one major final since his remarkable triple-Slam achievement in 2023. The 38-year-old has faced consistent physical challenges throughout the current season, raising questions about his longevity in the demanding sport.
The Road to Los Angeles 2028
When questioned about his future plans following his Athenian triumph, Djokovic provided fascinating insight into his long-term thinking. 'I've always had this in my life and career - I've always had a schedule in my head for a year or more, what I want, how I want it,' the champion explained.
'Since I've achieved absolutely every possible goal, I mentioned the 2028 Olympic Games because I want to play for many more years. So perhaps ending at the Olympic Games with the Serbian flag, that would be nice.'
Djokovic will turn 41 just two months before the Los Angeles Olympics commence. The tennis icon acknowledged the uncertainties ahead, admitting 'There are things that aren't totally under my control,' while emphasising his commitment to maintaining 'the best possible mental and physical health.'
Joining Tennis' Most Exclusive Club
The Serbian superstar secured his place among tennis immortality last year by claiming the men's singles gold medal in Paris, defeating Carlos Alcaraz 7-6, 7-6 in the final. This victory made him only the fifth player in history to complete the career Golden Slam - winning all four major championships plus Olympic singles gold.
He joins an elite group that includes:
- Steffi Graf, who achieved the remarkable feat within a single calendar year in 1988
- Andre Agassi, who completed the set by winning the French Open in 1999, three years after his Atlanta gold
- Rafael Nadal, who secured his Golden Slam with his first US Open victory in 2010, two years after Beijing gold
- Serena Williams, the only player to achieve Golden Slams in both singles and doubles
Williams completed her singles Golden Slam at the 2012 London Olympics, eleven years after finishing her doubles set at the US Open, following her first Olympic crown in Sydney.
Djokovic's declaration sets up the tantalising prospect of one of sport's greatest champions extending his remarkable career into his fifth decade, potentially concluding with an unprecedented Olympic title defence in California.
